Lucy Charles: Body found in river following major search for missing woman

Police discovered the 39-year-old’s personal belongings near the river last week

Lucy Charles was last seen on 22 December (Supplied)

A mother has shared her agony after a body has been found in the search for a missing woman, who disappeared near Wrexham three weeks ago.

Lucy Charles, 39, had last been seen walking past a pub on Station Road in Bangor-on-Dee at 5.34pm, with CCTV released by police showing a woman wearing a hi-viz jacket.

North Wales Police confirmed the body of a woman had been discovered in the River Dee during a search by local officers and the North West Underwater Search Team.

Writing on social media, her mother Vicky Charles said: “I wanted to tell all my family before this got out but looks like I was too late. Unfortunately they have found a body which is most likely Lucy I can’t tell you how heartbroken I am.”

She had last been seen walking past the Royal Oak pub in Bangor-on-Dee (North Wales Police)

Chief Inspector Stephen Roberts said: “Formal identification is yet to take place, but Lucy’s family have been informed, and are being supported by specialist officers.

“The local Coroner has also been informed.

“My thoughts are with Lucy’s family and friends at this difficult time.”

The force had released images of her last known movements, and said they were “increasingly concerned” for her welfare.

Last week, police confirmed they had found personal items belonging to Ms Charles on the banks of the River Dee, with mountain rescue teams, the fire service and the police helicopter involved in the search.